Luke Littler[1] has hit back at critics who branded him ‘arrogant’ after the world champion was beaten in the World Youth Championship just a day after lifting a £120,000 title.
The 18-year-old defended his decision to compete in the youth event after a surprise semi-final defeat to three-time women’s world champion Beau Greaves earlier this week.
Littler had dropped down to the youth competition in Wigan less than 24 hours after his World Grand Prix triumph over Luke Humphries.
The move drew backlash from some fans who accused him of showing disrespect to younger players.
Speaking after returning to action on Wednesday to win the Players Championship 32, Littler rejected those suggestions and explained his motivation for entering the youth tournament.
‘It’s the same venue as what we professionals play and obviously the likes of Gian van Veen – tour card holder, Keane Barry – tour card holder – both played, but I’m the one that gets it in the neck,’ he told reporters.
Luke Littler has hit back at critics who branded him ‘arrogant’ after his defeat in the World Youth Championship
The 18-year-old defended his decision to compete in the youth event after a surprise semi-final defeat to Beau Greaves
‘I didn’t win, so a lot of people were happy, but I just thought I’d come and get used to playing first to five, first to six, and that’s what I’ve done today and yesterday.’
The teenager has reportedly been training relentlessly since his Grand Prix win and is determined to maintain his rhythm ahead of the European Championship later this month.
Littler, who has already captured the World Championship, UK Open and World Matchplay titles this year, said he felt unstoppable after bouncing back with victory in Wigan.
‘I definitely do feel unstoppable,’ he added. ‘At the start of the day it’s never the best, but you’ve got to get past the early stages.
‘When it comes down to the last 16 or quarters, that’s when it turns nitty-gritty. I’m very happy with today.’
References
- ^ Luke Littler (www.dailymail.co.uk)